Rachel Alexandra has a baby

She gave birth to a 125-pound colt 2007-08 Horse of the Year Curlin at Stonestreet Farm near Lexington, Ky. at 2:40 p.m. Sunday. The colt took his first steps an hour and a half later.

Emblazoned with a white star, the alert colt bears a striking resemblance to his mother. Stonestreet Farm manager Gary Megibben said in a release that the mare and foal are doing well.

“Rachel is a natural mother, and took to the colt immediately,” he said.

Owner Barbara Banke was told of the breaking news while preparing to cheer on the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC title game at Candlestick Park.

“I am thrilled with the good news of Rachel’s safe delivery and health of the handsome colt that resembles her,” she said in a statement. “For me and my children, this colt represents Jess’ (her late husband Jess Jackson) dream – to raise and race the best. Co-owner Hal McCormick and I look forward to watching him develop and are excited to see him carry the Stonestreet silks as his Mom and Dad did before him.”

Curlin won the 2007 Breeder’s Cup Classic Winner and 2008 Dubai World Cup. Rachel Alexandra, who redefined gender at the racetrack by became the first filly in 85 years to win the Preakness and the first filly to ever win the Woodward Stakes at Saratoga. That happened in 2009.